If you’re part of the “always freezing” crowd — especially if you live in a colder climate — warm winter base layers are a wardrobe must, from thermal undershirts and long johns to cozy socks. Many of these items are made for outdoor activities in the cold, but are just as useful for staying warm while you’re hanging out at home (and might be able to help you lay off the thermostat just a little bit).
If you’re looking to stock up on base layers to get through the chilly months, Amazon has a great variety of under-$30 options for both men and women. We tracked down some of the best base layers for you. Keep scrolling to read all about them, and why reviewers reach for them over and over again.
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Available in sizes XS-4XL, this mock-neck top boasts a double-layered synthetic fabric that's brushed for softness on the interior and has a silky-smooth finish on the outside. The top is constructed for comfort and movement thanks to flexible underarm panels and a four-way stretch.
Promising review: "Warm and fitted but not compression this top works great under sweaters and shirts in cold weather. Good price and quick shipping!" — Vicki L. Shellen
You may already be a fan of this adorably-named brand's loungewear, but did you know that Cuddl Duds also make popular and extraordinarily affordable base layers? This thermal set is made from a cozy synthetic fabric that boasts a brushed finish on the interior and a soft, toothsome exterior. The fabric's dense knit also promises superior UV protection. Get the set in women's sizes XS-XXL.
Promising review: "I wanted a base layer for skiing that wasn’t overpriced (REI separates were going for $115-$130 for just a top or bottom). This was a great value. The fabric feels high quality and soft to touch. The warmth is just the right amount. I am planning to use these for skiing and for everyday. These would work great under my scrubs at work to keep me warm in the hospital. Definitely recommend!" — Sarah F
These bestselling long johns are a set comprised of a separate thermal long-sleeved shirt and leggings. There's a men's version by Thermajohn and a women's version by Thermajane. Both versions have 4.6 stars across over 40,000 reviews and provide heat retention, moisture wicking plus a four-way stretch. You can wear this set as pajamas at home or underneath other clothing if you're going out.
The men's version is available in five colors and sizes XS-4XL, while the women's comes in 15 colors and sizes XXS-3XL, with three neckline options. Many reviewers suggest sizing up.
Promising review: "I work outside for hours at a time. Wearing these keep me warm without restricting my mobility.It also allows me to wear a layer less. Combined with proper socks and gloves, these will not disappoint." — Wire Guy
Available in one- or two-packs, you can't go wrong with this bestseller from Fruit of the Loom. It's a long-sleeved thermal top with a waffle texture and crew neckline that comes in four neutral colors that can go with just about anything. Comfort is the name of the game with this base layer — the shirts are moisture-wicking, heat-retaining and even have a tagless label. Get them in men's sizes S-5X. (Note that despite the photos here showing a full set, this product is only the shirt.)
If you like the traditional waffle pattern, this Indera thermal shirt may be for you. Like the Fruit of the Loom shirts, this top comes in four neutral colors, has a crewneck and tagless label, and is sold in one- or two-packs. One aspect that helps it to stand out is the wider range in sizing, from S-6X with tall sizes also available (reviewers recommend sizing up). Shoppers seem to agree this isn't the warmest shirt on its own, but it works best as a base layer under something else.
Promising review: "I'm 6'9" 260ibs, finding clothes can be a pain in the butt and expensive as trying to buy groceries under $100. These were a warm lifesaver if you work out in the cold all day and don't want small long johns freezing your butt off cause they don't cover everything. Get these and support the folks making clothes at a good price for tall guys." — Maxwell
Your feet lose heat fast and can feel colder than the rest of your body in chilly temperatures, so warm socks like these Merino wool ones by Alvada are an important base layer to remember. Available in 15 colorways and gender-neutral sizes XS/S-L/XL, these socks are made for hiking but can work for plenty of activities in the cold. They have a no-slip cuff, reinforced heel and toe, footbed cushioning and moisture control fibers (warm doesn't have to mean sweaty). The socks are machine-washable, but make sure to let them air dry so they don't shrink.
Promising review: "I ordered these socks because I work in Wyoming where the temperatures can get well below freezing. Let me start by saying they exceeded my expectations. My feet are very warm and they don’t even sweat in these socks which is a plus because I’ve bought other insulated socks and my feet sweated a lot. I will definitely be purchasing more of these." — Thomas M.
If you remember Baleaf for their ever-popular quick-dry hiking pants, it should be no surprise that they make great leggings, too. Many of their leggings and pants are above the $30 threshold, but we did find these fleece-lined leggings for cheaper (this might technically not be a true long john, but leggings can be worn under other clothes and the fleece lining can keep you warm). They're high-waisted with a V-shaped waistband, water-resistant, have two pockets and are designed specifically for weather below 40 degrees. The leggings are available in four colors and sizes XS-XXL.
Promising review: "I love the fit, they’re really warm, the zippers are perfect for my phone and money. They washed up good and did not lose their shape. This is my second pair. However I would love to have five of them. I’ve had them on in 20° weather and still comfortable. They are true to the size chart. In my opinion. The outside layer is very nice quality and waterproof." — Ina
SmartWool was founded by two ski instructors in 1994 and has developed a strong reputation for warm and well-made goods. The brand's classic long-sleeved base layer is made of 100% Merino wool, a naturally antimicrobial and moisture-wicking material that provides temperature-regulating insulation. (Knitwear designer Maria Dora previously told HuffPost that the material can absorb up to 30% of its own weight in water without feeling wet.) It's available in sizes XS-XL and 27 lovely colors.
Promising review: "Excellent quality, and expensive!! This is not for everyone, because of the price, but the value is clearly worth every penny, at least from my point of view. I just bought my second shirt in a different color." — D.Owens
If you want something a little better suited to running or other exercises you might be doing in the cold, this women's thermal underwear set has you covered. Both the long-sleeved shirt and leggings have a compression fit to increase blood flow and circulation and are stretchy, moisture-wicking and designed to have fewer seams than other sets for ultimate comfort. Grab a set in sizes XS-XXL and in seven color combos.
Promising review: "I work outside along the water. I bought this hoping that it would help when the temps hits freezing. When I first pulled them out of the pkg. I thought the sizes are really off this seems like it's going to be a really tight fit, but when I pulled it over my head it actually stretched well and form fit nicely. I wore them under a t-shirt and hoodie and I was surprisingly not cold!!! I had to buy another pair!!! I will be buying a few more pairs to keep me going this winter. Definitely a must buy!!!" — Dedicated71
Though this men's thermal underwear set doesn't offer compression, it still has a sporty look and is well-suited for cold weather thanks to the fleece lining, moisture-wicking and wrist closure design to lock in heat. The fabric is also resistant to pilling, fading and shrinking. One unique aspect of this set is the choice of a crew neck or turtleneck, if you want to keep your neck nice and toasty, too. The set is available in a bunch of colors and camo patterns, and sizes XXS-6XL.
You can get these Hot Feet socks in a two- or four-pack (though only the two-pack meets our under-$30 criteria). Not only do they come in fun colors and patterns like the gingham shown here, but these socks are seriously thick and warm — in fact, the brand even suggests wearing boots a size or two bigger for the best fit. They have a brushed inner lining for softness and heat retention and are machine-washable. They're sold in one size that fits men's shoe sizes 6-12.5.
Heads up: You get 10% off if you buy three packs! Just clip the on-page coupon for savings at checkout.
For more reviewer-beloved long johns, look no further than this Weerti set, which is fleece-lined and machine-washable. It has a four-way stretch, moisture-wicking fabric and a snug fit to keep you warm. This one also stands out for having a couple more exciting color options, like this wine red, in addition to classic neutrals. It's available in sizes XXS-3XL.
Promising review: "These are great for providing warmth under your clothes when you have to be outside in the cold. I actually wore them under leggings and a sweater in Scotland and stayed toasty warm out in the elements all day! Great purchase!" — Debbie Mc
Nothing's worse than thinking you're prepared for the cold only to realize your feet will be frozen because your socks aren't thick enough. That likely won't be an issue with these thicker-than-normal socks, which have a soft, brushed inner and are made with extra-thick yarn and a deep cushion for warmth and comfort. These are made for the great outdoors and can withstand extremely cold temperatures, but they'll also fare just as well as cozy indoor socks. Grab a pair in five colors and patterns, and two sizes.
Promising review: "I’ve had these socks for a month and I just ordered a second pair. I absolutely love these socks. They are fantastic and comfortable and my feet are always nice and toasty. I wear them over my lightweight short athletic socks. As soon as I take them off at the end of the day, my feet immediately know the difference I highly recommend them if your feet are frequently cold." — Kathleen
These synthetic, moisture-wicking pants have all the trappings of a comfortable pant, including flatlock seams that won't dig into the skin, a brushed elastic waistband and a contoured fly. The signature material is designed to dry quickly, wick away sweat and resist odor. Get these in men's sizes S-4XL.
Promising review: "So far these are the most comfortable and warm thermals I’ve owned to date! They’ve always said if there’s one layer you don’t buy cheap, it’s thermals! Well worth the money! Ordering another set!" — Shayne